Shows
Manufacturing Transformed: Real Shops, Real StoriesSmall Headcount - High Discipline: Building Success with Garrett from Elemental Design + MachineryMost machine shop startups are defined by hustle, long hours, and organized chaos. But when Garrett Wolfford founded Elemental Design + Machinery in January 2024, he had a different blueprint: "Small headcount, high discipline". While many owners wait years to professionalize their operations, Garrett built the foundation of a major aerospace facility for a team of just three people. He didn't wait to "grow into" systems; he implemented AS9100 certification, ITAR registration, and ProShop ERP almost immediately. The goal was audacious: to transition from general manufacturing to critical "hard parts" for the aerospace and defense sectors. After...
2026-01-201h 02
Rapid Fire ManufacturingBuilding a Machine Shop from Zero with Garrett WolffordStarting a machine shop is not freedom.It is sacrifice, responsibility, and learning how to survive before you thrive.In this episode of Rapid Fire Manufacturing, I sit down in Chattanooga, Tennessee with Garrett Wolford, owner and president of Elemental Design and Machinery.Garrett shares what it really takes to start a shop from scratch:Why NDAs force you to build a brand without showing partsHow Elemental was intentionally named using SEO and long-term thinkingThe reality of cash flow and why shop owners must learn to “be...
2026-01-1428 min